Twelve people died in a plane crash off the coast of Roatan Island, Honduras, including Garifuna musician Aurelio Martinez. The aircraft, operated by Lanhsa, had three crew members and fourteen passengers. Authorities confirmed that among the dead were two children, a French national, and a U.S. national. The plane had been bound for La Ceiba on the Honduran mainland.

Emergency workers retrieved bodies from the sea on Monday night, with police and firefighters leading rescue efforts. According to fire chief Franklin Borjas, “unfavorable weather has made search and rescue operations more difficult.” Officials said they were still searching for the final victim.

Roatan, known for its coral reefs and tourism, became the site of the tragedy just 1km from the island’s airport.

President Xiomara Castro said, “I have immediately activated the Emergency Operations Committee (COE) team… They are working nonstop to help with the sad incident.” She added, “Injured passengers can now be treated at the public hospitals in San Pedro Sula and La Ceiba. May God protect people’s lives.”